Driving that first Ford Sierra Cosworth was a dream

I heard on the news the other day that it’s the anniversary of André Citroën’s death.
Ford Sierra RS500 CosworthFord Sierra RS500 Cosworth
Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth

He was the founder of the Citroën car company and it was 80 years ago that he died.

I realised I’ve never mentioned cars in this column, so today’s the day, and have I got a classic story for you!

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I now tend to drive comfortable cars. They are by no means boring and I do love my cars, but with age has come a need for a bit of comfort.

Allan Blackburn, Owner of GB Antiques Centre and Lancaster Leisure ParkAllan Blackburn, Owner of GB Antiques Centre and Lancaster Leisure Park
Allan Blackburn, Owner of GB Antiques Centre and Lancaster Leisure Park

I drive to work in Lancaster from my home in Preston most days, so I need a car that is easy to drive.

Now I have an Audi Estate, but when I was younger I was lucky enough to be able to buy the car of my dreams.

Twenty-five years ago, I had a very good friend who was a car dealer.

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One day he told me he was getting the very first Ford Sierra Cosworth to come into this country. He said he would only get one but it was mine, if I wanted it.

I didn’t need asking twice! It was the fastest thing on four wheels and the fastest thing I’ve ever been lucky enough to drive. I was 42 when I got it and while I couldn’t be called a young man, I certainly felt it driving that car!

The insurance was a staggering £2,000 a year – and that was then. It probably equivalent to about £6,000 now.

I remember being told it cost the same to insure a light aircraft.

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Gloria spent the entire time I owned that car telling me to slow down.

At the time it was so rare to have a car like that on the road, I don’t think anyone knew what to make of me.

I took the family to Amsterdam in it and was followed by police who thought I was a wealthy drug dealer. Oh, but it was lovely to drive.

But, after all that pleasure and excitement, when I left the family textile company I sold the car.

I sold it immediately for much more that I paid for it and with the money I got for selling it, I set up GB Antiques. I have a lot to thank that car for!